Cactus Pear Green Smoothie Recipes, Nutrition and Health Benefits

Cactus pears are the fruit of the prickly pear cactus or nopal. Also known as the cactus fig or tuna (as the fruit is called in Latin America), cactus pears are native to the western hemisphere, where they are largely cultivated in Mexico.

The cactus pear is a sweet fruit with a flavor reminiscent of watermelon and kiwifruit.

Cactus pears are harvested in the summer, with the majority of the harvest taking place between June and September.

Cactus Pear Nutrition and Health Benefits

The cactus pear is high in fiber, magnesium and vitamin C. It is also a great source of antioxidants and carotenoids.

In Mexican folk medicine, its pulp and juice have been used to treat various aliments including wounds and inflammation, as well as digestive and urinary tract problems.

Compounds in prickly pear cactus species have been studied for potential uses in treating high cholesterol, obesity, alcohol hangover, colitis and viral infections. One species of prickly pear cactus (Opuntia streptacantha) has been shown to decrease blood sugar by up to 46% when the stems (but not the fruit) are broiled and eaten. However, the blood sugar lowering properties have not been seen in raw stems, or in other species of prickly pear.

Who Shouldn’t Use Cactus Pear

People with diabetes should check with their doctor before consuming cactus pear. While the stems of certain prickly pear cactus species have been shown to lower blood sugar, there is limited information about the effectiveness of the fruit itself. Be sure to monitor blood sugar levels carefully after consumption and watch for signs of hypoglycemia.

How To Use Cactus Pear In A Green Smoothie

Both the cactus pear fruit and the cactus “leaves” or nopals can be used in green smoothies. The fruit is delicious and accents many other tropical flavors. The green nopal leaves can take the place of leafy greens by providing a fresh green flavor and minerals.

Two things you need to watch out for are spines and seeds. Cactus pears have seeds that do not pulverize in a blender – not even a high-powered Vitamix. Instead, you’ll end up with jagged bits of broken seed that could get caught in your throat or irritate your digestive tract. While it can be a pain, it’s best to remove the seeds prior to blending.

A trick for removing the seeds of cactus pear is to cut the fruit in half and scoop the seeds into a strainer. With a spoon, mash the seedy fruit pulp into the strainer held over a bowl. The juice will drain through the mesh of the strainer, and the fruit will be easier to separate from the seeds. I recommend using a metal bowl under the strainer to catch the fruit juice as it will stain plastic (clothing and skin, too).

As for the spines, be sure to check cactus fruit over carefully to be sure all of the spines have been removed. I recommend pealing the fruit before eating, that way you get even the tiny, hard to see spines close to the skin.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to be used as medical advice or to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Always work directly with a qualified medical professional before attempting to treat any illness or medical condition with diet and lifestyle, or when changing or discontinuing any prescription medications. Always check with your doctor before starting any new diet or fitness program.